Magpie Café, Yorkshire

Among the gulls, goths and jet-jewellery shops of Whitby is a bona fide fish n chip phenomenon.

By Harper's Bazaar Staff11 August 2010

Among the gulls, goths and jet-jewellery shops of Whitby is a bona fide fish n chip phenomenon. The Magpie Café has always been popular  the premises have been feeding seasiders since 1939  but with Rick Stein and even Adrian Gill rhapsodising about its way with beef dripping, its gone stratospheric. In other words, be prepared to queue, even on a wet Wednesday at 11.33am.

In the café, uniformed waitresses will bring you grilled sole, crab salad, goujons for the children  all terrific, and best accompanied by a mug of tea. Takeaway battered haddock and chips must be eaten leaning against the harbour wall. A quick run up the 199 steps to Whitby Abbey opposite may be appropriate before bedtime.

Best beach in reach:

West Cliff beach, two miles of sand and rocks to trudge along.

Barefoot or brushed-up?

The café is tearoom-genteel.

Fun for all the family?

The queue is the perfect opportunity to teach small children about delayed gratification. If you cant cope, try Trenchers, opposite the station, instead. Haddock and chips, £9.95.

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